Head Coach Stuart Pearce was more than happy with his side's cutting edge in Cork on Tuesday.

Republic of Ireland v England
2009 UEFA European Under-21 Championship Qualifier
8pm, Tuesday 16 October 2007
Turner's Cross, Cork

England Under-21 Head Coach Stuart Pearce couldn’t hide his delight at his team’s victory over the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday evening.

A brace from West Ham United midfielder Mark Noble and a strike from James Milner in the first half saw England take early control in the first half at Cork.

It was England’s fourth successive victory in their qualifying campaign for the UEFA U21 Championships and Pearce is delighted with the team spirit that has been engendered within his squad, likening it to that of a club side.

“It’s like a club situation and that’s what we want, so we’re pleased with that,” said Pearce, following the victory at Turner's Cross.

“The players have taken it upon themselves to create that, so all credit to them.

“A lot of players here are doing themselves no harm at all.

"We've all got our feet on the ground and everyone wants to play for England."

Pearce’s team simply didn’t allow their hosts to settle from the first whistle and Noble’s opener after just 10 minutes set the Young Lions on their way before he added a second seven minutes later, allowing Milner’s 27th minute strike to give England a firm advantage.

“We got our feet in front and did some very good things, so I was delighted with the performance and they were sensational,” added Pearce.

“Whenever you take to the field against an Irish team and you are wearing the Three Lions, you know what you need to do and what you are going to get from the opposition.

“We matched them for endeavour and had the cutting edge.”